Martin Luther refused to recant his writings at the Diet of Worms on 18 April 1521. Although he had been excommunicated, the imperial potentates had successfully insisted that he be questioned. Luther's refusal prompted Charles V to issue his Imperial Edict one day later.
Information panels at five locations spread around the city centre commemorate the events of the Imperial Diet of 1521 and its repercussions. Visitors can scan the QR codes to access detailed information and images. The City Library and the City Museum are located along the tour.
The Bishop's palace, the historical site of Luther's refusal to recant, was destroyed in 1689. From May to October, artistically designed and interactive stops between Heylshof Garden and the City Library retell the events of the 1521 Imperial Diet.
The Tourist Information Office in the City of Worms arranges public tours on every 2nd Sunday from April to October, as well as bookable group tours and topical costume tours, on the subject of Luther in Worms.
The Worms City Library holds over 650 printed works from the Reformation era. Luther's Letter to the Councillors of 1524 is recognised as a UNESCO Memory of the World document. Early examples of printed works from the Reformation were produced in Peter Schöffer's print shop.
On the suggestion of Worms, the 'Association of Luther Cities' has awarded 'The Intrepid Word' prize every two years since 1996. The city and the Protestant Church in Hesse and Nassau have organised the 'Worms Religious Colloquy' every three years since 2013.
The City of Worms and the Protestant Deanery of Worms-Wonnegau have published an annual calendar with city events addressing historical and contemporary topics relating to the Reformation since 2011.
Extending approximately 400 kilometres, the Luther Trail 1521 traces the steps that Martin Luther took on his way to the Diet of Worms. The trail starts in Worms at St Magnus' Church and winds its way through the town centre to Oppenheim.
